For more than 60 years, the Alabama National Fair has been bringing good times to the people of Montgomery — and those who, as the song says, travel from miles around.

Returning this weekend, the fair brings with it a plethora of options to keep the whole family entertained (and fed). From longtime rockers to alligator exhibits to fair rides both fast and high, there’s something for everyone at Garrett Coliseum and the surrounding fairgrounds.

Musical Entertainment

In May, representatives officially announced the 2015 Alabama National Fair and in doing so touted the musical lineup coming this year. Randy Stephenson, general manager of the fair, built up to the announcement of headlining act Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Stephenson would go on to call getting the act “the biggest thing” the fair has ever done. While the fair has gotten some big name acts in the past, it’s arguable that Stephenson is right to call Lynyrd Skynyrd the biggest.

Taking the stage on Nov. 7, Lynyrd Skynyrd will bring four decades of musical experience. Tragically, they have not done so with the same lineup as three founding members were killed in a 1977 plane crash. The current lineup contains only one founding member, guitarist Gary Rossington.

Swindell has been riding his song “Chillin It” to a new status of superstardom, coming from a role where he once sold his own merchandise while opening for Luke Bryan. Stephenson compared Swindell to Bryan, who fair attendees got to see during a previous fair lineup, by saying this could be another chance to see a musician before they become even more popular.

Rounding out the representatives of musical genres is R&B singer Anthony Hamilton, who will take the stage Sunday. The Grammy-winning singer will return after last performing at the Alabama National Fair in 2013.

On Nov. 6, Brad Bradley will also present “A Tribute to Elvis” in a show that will feature The Heritage Brothers.

Other attractions

Up and down the midway will be all types of carnival games and rides, including ones with names such as Wipeout, Mega Drop and Himalaya. However, also located throughout the area will be special performances from various animals.

Kachunga and the Alligator Show will present an 8-foot, 250-pound alligator for audiences to marvel at. One child will be selected for each performance to get closer to the alligator — while Kachunga holds him, of course.

K9s in Flight will show off acrobatic dogs in what is dubbed the “ultimate K9 sports show.” Watch the dogs catch Frisbees while also having fun with an interactive format.

Also available will be the Zerbini Family Circus, the Hambone Express 3 Racing Pigs and the Puppetone Rockers, a group of rocking puppets.

Also check out

The Alabama National Fair always seems to have a specialty food item and this year is no different. Though items have been daring in the past (Krispy Kreme Doughnut Burger, for example) this year brings a competitive nature.

Alabama’s Best Corndog will be available at various food stands throughout the midway. The food item is a slight twist on the corndog, becoming the corn sausage dog and using Kelley sausage and Alaga syrup.

The Alabama National Fair will also play host to several livestock shows, a creative living center, drill team competitions, team roping demonstrations and various art shows.

For a complete list of exhibits, show times, ticket information and daily specials, visit alnationalfair.org.

Want to go?

WHAT: The Alabama National Fair

WHEN: Friday through Nov. 8

WHERE: 1570 Federal Drive

ADMISSION: Ticket prices start at $10 but vary on days with various specials.